Nearly 500 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 639 in Wichita, Kansas, have ratified a new four-year labor contract with Bombardier. The agreement includes annual wage increases of 4%, 3%, 3%, and 5% over the contract term. Additionally, employer pension contributions will rise from $59 to $66 per year of service.
All employees will now receive a $3 per hour premium pay, extending what was previously limited to some workers. The contract also adds a combined $2.50 per hour premium for airframe and powerplant work.
IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin commented on the outcome: “Wichita is unique with its skilled labor force, which contributes significantly to general aviation. Our members at Bombardier are part of that workforce and earned an agreement commensurate with their contributions. We are incredibly proud of their dedication.”
Negotiations began on June 23, with union representatives seeking to address member concerns while ensuring competitiveness among local aerospace companies.
“Our members at Local 639 always work to ensure that they receive what is due to them,” said IAM District 70 Directing Business Representative Lisa Whitley. “This year’s negotiations are no different. This negotiating team took charge and presented a solid agreement to the membership for their consideration and ratification.”
IAM International President Brian Bryant added: “We represent the best in class in aerospace in Wichita. This contract represents our membership’s hard work and dedication to their craft. Congrats to Local 639 members on a job well done.”
The new contract will take effect on July 28 and expire in 2029.
The IAM Union is one of North America’s largest industrial trade unions, representing about 600,000 active and retired members across industries such as aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and more in both the United States and Canada (https://www.goiam.org/).
